The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be challenging for those struggling with stress, loneliness, or seasonal affective disorder.
Norfolk General Hospital is reminding residents that support is available for anyone experiencing feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression during this period.
Free and confidential services include Kids Help Phone for youth, Health 811 for medical advice and mental health support, the Crisis Assessment and Support Team (CAST) for individuals 16 and older, and the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline for anyone feeling unsafe.
Indigenous residents can access culturally appropriate support through the Hope for Wellness Help Line, available 24/7 with services in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut.
The hospital emphasizes that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
For anyone in immediate danger, Norfolk General encourages calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency department.
These services ensure that no one in the community has to face mental health challenges alone during the holidays.
